Showcase essential skills to universities through the Duke of Edinburgh Award

Boarding school experience
22 November 2018

Showcase essential skills to universities through the Duke of Edinburgh Award

In addition to exploring your chosen subjects and improving your English at a CATS College, you are actively encouraged to spend time pursuing the things you love, trying new activities and developing a range of skills to be your best.

One popular extracurricular activity is The Duke of Edinburgh Award, which is an internationally-recognised and valued youth award encouraging young people aged 14-24 to be the best that they can be. It is widely recognised by admissions tutors and employers as a demonstration of your investment in your personal development and ability to respond well to your next challenge.

About the Award

There are three levels of programme: Bronze, Silver and Gold. The main differences between them are the minimum length of time it takes to complete them, how challenging it is and the minimum age you can start.

You achieve your Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections (five if you’re going for Gold) – Volunteering, Physical, Skills, Expedition and for Gold, a Residential experience.

What are the benefits of the Duke of Edinburgh Award?

Through the programme, you’ll find yourself helping team members or people in the community, getting fitter, developing essential life skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).

The skills you’ll develop will range from from leadership, communication, team work, to problem-solving, self-motivation and resilience.

How can the Award help your university application?

Get a competitive advantage by using what you have learnt through the Award programme to demonstrate to universities your new-found skills and qualities. You’ll be able to give examples of your achievements and showcase your commitment in your personal statement and at your university interview.

Watch Aqua, a student from Lithuania, talking about how the award supported her university application. Aqua is now studying Veterinary Science at the University of Edinburgh

Join a CATS college to develop your skills, make new friends at the same time as immersing yourself in British life and culture.

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